I have a 2001 Dakota with a 4.7V8 4spd auto and 2wd. My check engine light came on when I was driving with 1/8 of a tank. This came off as odd to me because my truck has less than 55,000 miles on it and was in good condition when it was purchased two months ago. I never drive over 60 and seldom accelerate hard so I'm guessing it indicates an emissions problem, more specifically the cat. Does anyone have any experience, advice, or knowledge as to what it is?

Check your codes by doing the key dance thing. Key between on and off positions like 4 times then watch the odometer display. Only between run and engine off not ignition off. Then post the code(s) that display.All will be in the following format P####. IF the engine is still running fine then chances are you have a bad O2 sensor which is a fairly cheap fix.

k thanks.The code is P0442

P0442 Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak)
Commonly caused by a loose gas cap, or the seal on the gas cap being bad.

the other thing that will set of the mil light is if you hit a big enough pot hole in the street the sudden jarring will cause the light to come on.

Tighten up you r gas cap then reset the code. If it comes on again I would have someone look at it.

To reset your engine codes:
Remove the negative terminal of your battery (10mm wrench).
Turn your ignition key to START and hold it there for about 15 seconds.
Turn your ignition key to OFF and remove it.
Connect the negative terminal of your battery.

I appreciate the help. I really do.

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I had the same code come up on mine and it was a little five inch vacum hose in the engine bay make sure to check those out to . good luck

That's a damn beautiful truck you got there 8795! Where have I seen one like that before??

Thanks for the helpful info on the Malfunction Indicator Light. I checked the gas cap, it was for some reason loose. I reset the code and all is well. Wish I had discovered this group earlier on!